Mounting assembly and method for locating and assembling parts with a tight press fit
US5979037A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 6, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 6, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49945
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A mounting assembly and method for locating and assembling parts with a tight press fit uses an intentional design interference between two mating parts. Because of the interference fit, material is "crushed" or compressed when one mating part, such as a button frame, is forced upon the other mating part, such as a cabinet, and a tight fit is created. The interference fit is provided between first and second bosses and first and second mating holes, respectively, on opposite sides of each of the first and second bosses along a respective first axis, but not along a second axis that extends between the first and second bosses. Thus, a greater design tolerance is permitted in a direction between the first and second bosses and between the first and second mating holes, respectively. A third assembly part, such as a light guide, can be sandwiched between the first and second mating parts. The mounting assembly according to the invention reduces production costs and complexity involved with conventional assembly methods that use glue, screws, or other conventional fastening arrangements.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.